Abstract
Objectives/Goals: The Clinical Research Education in Genome Science (CREiGS) program was developed to address the need for faculty and trainees conducting biomedical research to gain foundational training in genome science and accelerate the clinical adoption of genomic medicine. CREiGS, funded by NHGRI, offers comprehensive training in genomic analysis and statistical computing. Methods/Study Population: CREiGS targets a diverse pool of medical/doctoral students, postdocs, and faculty from academic institutions nationwide. The hybrid program included an 11-week online phase and a 3-day in-person phase, focusing on genomic science, statistical analysis and R programming, rigor and reproducibility, and engaging diverse populations in genomics research. Advanced special topics lectures included: decision analysis for genomics research, bioethical engagement of indigenous communities in genomics research, elucidating gene networks for advancing human health, etc. Strategies for recruiting diverse participants and ensuring an inclusive learning environment were informed by the Diversity Recruitment External Advisory Board. Participants’ skills were evaluated via pre- and post-course surveys. Results/Anticipated Results: Of 187 participants over 5 cohorts, 68.4% were female and 47.0% from underrepresented groups. The cohort spanned career stages, with 35.3% students, 34.2% postdocs, and 30.4% faculty, most of whom were at the junior level. Competency evaluations showed improvements in all core competencies of the course: (1) independently carrying out small-scale research improvements, (2) confidence collaborating with statisticians, bioinformaticians, and other genome science experts, (3) applying appropriate statistical methods for the analysis of genetics and genomics data, (4) accurately interpreting findings from genome research studies, (5) critiquing the internal/external validity of genome research studies, and (6) effectively engaging diverse populations and community stakeholders. Discussion/Significance of Impact: CREiGS successfully provided inclusive, high-quality, genomic and statistical training, to diverse scientists enhancing their research capacity and methodologic competency. Findings from longer term evaluations examining the contribution of CREiGS to participants’ genome science-related scholarly productivity are forthcoming.